New MS treatment not yet available on Isle of Man

Ocrelizemab approved for use by NHS across

A small number of Multiple Scleroris sufferers could soon have a treatment available to slow their symptoms, after the approval of a new development in the UK.

Scientists believe 'Ocrelizumab' could delay the need for a wheelchair by seven years, and it's been approved for routine NHS use across - but not yet on the Isle of Man.

The treatment is recommended by NICE as an option for the treatment of some adult patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) already.

RRMS is the most common type of MS, accounting for approximately 85% of sufferers.

However, it's thought it also now works for Primary Progressive MS, a particular type of the condition, which accounts for around 10-15% of sufferers - there are roughly 25 PPMS patients on the Island.

Patients also need to meet certain criteria to be eligible.

It has been approved if they:

• Have had symptoms of primary progressive MS for 15 years or less and
• Are able to walk 20 metres or more, with or without walking aids and
• Have evidence of MS activity on MRI scans.

Therefore the number of people who fit these criteria will be small.

Georgina Carr, from the UK MS Society, says it's a huge step: